Asylum Program Data and Operations Intern (Unpaid)

Scope of Work

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) in New York is seeking a Data and Operations Intern to support the administrative, operational, and data management functions of a case management program serving asylum seekers in New York City. The intern’s contributions will play a meaningful role in supporting high-quality service delivery through improving program efficiency, supporting compliance with organizational and funder requirements, and strengthening the program’s ability to measure and demonstrate impact.

Responsibilities

• Support Client Financial Assistance Processes
• Aid in the logistical aspects of purchasing, tracking, and distributing gift cards and other forms of client financial assistance in accordance with organizational and funder guidelines.
• Support document organization and record maintenance in accordance with program and organizational standards.
• Data and Operations Support
• Support the development, implementation, and testing of system and process improvements related to data management and program operations.
• Aid in exploring technology-based solutions to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
• Learn and utilize approved technologies including Box and Microsoft 365 applications such as Excel, Sharepoint, Power Automate, Bookings, Forms, and Power BI to support operational enhancements.
• Conduct data quality assurance activities to identify and resolve inconsistencies, missing information, and data integrity issues.
• Aid in routine data reviews and preparation of data dashboards and visualizations that support program reporting and decision-making.
• Support documentation of workflows, procedures, and system processes to promote consistency and knowledge sharing across the team.
• Program Support
• Occasionally support for client-facing activities, including program orientation, intake, enrollment, and documentation collection.
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and program activities as appropriate.

Learning Objectives

• Develop Knowledge of Asylum Seeker Services: The intern will gain valuable insight into the current landscape for asylum seekers in New York City, including the asylum process, barriers to integration, and the network of legal, social, and humanitarian services available.
• Build Technical and Operational Skills: The intern will gain hands-on experience using data and operational tools, including Microsoft 365 applications such as Excel, SharePoint, Power Automate, and Power BI, to support program administration, reporting, and process improvement initiatives.
• Strengthen Program Management and Problem-Solving Skills: The intern will develop practical skills in program operations, data management, and systems thinking while contributing to solutions that enhance service delivery, compliance, and organizational effectiveness within a direct services program.

Requirements

• Interns must be based in the United States and either be enrolled in post-secondary institution or have graduated from a post-secondary institution within the past two years.
• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a university, college, or other post-secondary program (Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's, or equivalent).
• Individuals with at least two years of relevant professional or direct service experience may be considered regardless of educational background.
• Strong interest in immigration, refugee and asylum issues, social justice, nonprofit operations, or related fields.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 applications, particularly Excel, Word, and Outlook, with the ability to use digital tools for data entry, organization, and problem-solving.
• Familiarity with additional Microsoft 365 tools such as SharePoint, Power Automate, Forms, and Power BI is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new technologies and adapt to evolving systems and priorities.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Commitment to maintaining strict confidentiality and adherence to data protection and privacy standards.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse, multicultural, and multilingual environment.
• Demonstrated professionalism, cultural humility, and sensitivity when engaging with individuals who have experienced trauma and displacement.
• Ability to engage respectfully in conversations addressing sensitive topics, including detention, deportation, domestic violence, housing instability, labor trafficking, and family separation.
• Previous experience in social services, community-based organizations, immigration services, research, data management, or related fields is preferred but not required.